If you’ve ever bought a jersey or hat that just didn’t fit right, you know how important a good return policy is. Understanding the Mitchell and Ness return policy before you buy can save you time and hassle later. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits and conditions to step-by-step instructions for sending items back. We’ll cover exchanges, refunds, and what to do with international orders or sale items.
Mitchell and Ness Return Policy
The core Mitchell and Ness return policy is designed to be straightforward. They accept returns on most full-price items within 30 days of the delivery date. The items must be in new, unworn condition with all original tags and packaging attached. This is standard for apparel companies, especially those selling collectible sportswear. It’s crucial to note that the 30-day clock starts when the package is delivered, not when you placed the order. Always check your delivery confirmation email to mark your calendar.
What Items Are Eligible for Return?
Not everything you buy from Mitchell and Ness can be sent back. Knowing what is eligible prevents disappointment. Here’s a quick list:
- Jerseys, shorts, and jackets with tags still attached and no signs of wear.
- Hats that haven’t been worn and have the original sizing sticker inside.
- T-shirts, polos, and sweatshirts in original, unwashed condition.
- Accessories like bags or socks, if the packaging is unopened.
What Items Are Final Sale (Non-Returnable)?
Some purchases are final. You typically cannot return these items:
- Any product marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase.
- Gift cards (though these can be used for any purchase).
- Customized or personalized jerseys and products.
- Items that have been worn, washed, or altered in any way.
- Products without their original tags and packaging.
Always double-check your cart before checkout. The product page for final sale items should clearly state they are not returnable. If your unsure, contact customer service before buying.
Condition Requirements: Unworn and Tags Attached
This is the most important part of the policy. Mitchell and Ness products are often seen as collectibles, so they must be returned in resellable condition. “Unworn” means you haven’t tried it on for more than a fitting. Avoid getting any makeup, deodorant, or perfume on the item. The original hang tags and price tags must be fixed to the garment. For hats, the sizing sticker must remain inside. If you remove the tags to try something on, you may void your return eligibility. It’s a good idea to try items on carefully over your own clothes to avoid any accidents.
The 30-Day Return Window
You have 30 calendar days from the day your order is delivered to initiate a return. Don’t wait until day 29 to start the process. It can take a day to get your return authorization, and you need to ship the item back within a certain timeframe after that. We recommend starting a return within 21 days to give yourself plenty of buffer for mail processing. Remember, the return is based on delivery date, not the purchase date. If your package was left on your porch for a few days before you got it, the clock started ticking anyway.
Step-by-Step Return Process
Following the correct steps ensures your return is processed quickly and without issues. Here is the standard procedure:
Step 1: Initiate Your Return Online
Go to the Mitchell and Ness website and find the “Returns & Exchanges” page, often linked in the footer. You will need your order number and the email address used to place the order. Enter these details to access your order and select the items you wish to return. The system will guide you through choosing a reason for the return. This feedback is actually helpful for the company, so be honest.
Step 2: Receive Your RMA and Instructions
After submitting your request, you’ll receive a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number via email. This number is crucial. The email will also contain a printable return shipping label and packing instructions. Do not ship your return without this RMA number. Write it on the outside of the box or ensure it’s on the label. Returns received without an RMA may be refused or delayed significantly.
Step 3: Pack Your Item Securely
Place the item in its original packaging, if possible. Include all tags, labels, and any accessories that came with it. Seal the package securely. Attach the provided return label over the old shipping label. If you no longer have the original box, use a sturdy plain box. It’s wise to include a copy of your return authorization email inside the package as a backup. This helps warehouse staff if the outer label gets damaged.
Step 4: Ship the Package and Track It
Drop off the package at the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS). Get a drop-off receipt or tracking number if one isn’t already provided on your label. Keep this tracking information until you receive confirmation that your return has been processed. This is your proof of shipment in case anything gets lost in transit.
Step 5: Wait for Processing and Refund
Once Mitchell and Ness receives your return, their warehouse team will inspect it. This process can take 5-10 business days. After inspection is approved, your refund will be issued. The time it takes for the refund to appear on your credit card or PayPal account varies by your financial institution, usually 3-10 more business days.
Exchanges vs. Refunds
Do you want a different size or color, or do you just want your money back? The process differs slightly.
How to Request an Exchange
Mitchell and Ness typically handles exchanges through a return-and-repurchase method. This means you would process a return for the original item and then place a new order for the desired item. This is often faster than a traditional exchange because new inventory is reserved for new sales, not for holding for exchanges. The benefit is you get the new item shipped out as soon as you order it. The downside is you need to have funds available to pay for the new order before the refund for the old one clears. During high-demand drops, this ensures you get the size you want before it sells out.
Refund Methods and Timing
Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. If you paid by credit card, it goes back to that card. If you used a gift card, store credit will be reissued. The timeline is important: after the warehouse processes your return (5-10 business days), the refund is initiated. It then takes your bank or payment processor another few days to post it. Don’t panic if it doesn’t show up immediately after you get the “return processed” email. International refunds may take even longer due to currency conversion and bank processing.
Special Considerations and Exceptions
International Returns
Returning items from outside the United States involves extra steps. You are usually responsible for the cost of international return shipping, which can be expensive. You may also need to fill out a customs form declaring the return, and mark it as “Returned Goods” to avoid being charged import duties again. The 30-day window still applies, but shipping times can eat into that period. Contact Mitchell and Ness customer service directly before initiating an international return for specific instructions and potential return locations.
Returns for Damaged or Defective Items
If your item arrives damaged or has a manufacturing defect (like a loose stitch or misprinted logo), the process is different. Do not initiate a standard return. Instead, contact customer service immediately with photos of the damage and your order details. They will often provide a prepaid return label and expedite a replacement item if available. This is usually handled outside the standard return window, as it’s a quality assurance issue, not a change of mind.
Sale Items and Promotional Purchases
Items bought during a sale or with a special promo code are often subject to stricter rules. Always read the terms of the sale. Some promotions explicitly state “all sales are final.” If a sale item is returnable, you might receive refund in the form of store credit rather than cash back to your card. The refund amount may also be for the sale price you paid, not the original listed price.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
- Inspect items immediately upon delivery. Don’t let them sit in the box for weeks.
- Keep all packaging and tags until you are sure you’re keeping the item.
- Take clear photos of the items before you send them back, including one with the tags attached. This provides proof of condition.
- Use the provided return label. Using your own method may void the return or cause processing delays.
- Be polite and clear if you need to contact customer service. Having your order number ready speeds things up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to get a refund from Mitchell and Ness?
After they receive your return, allow 5-10 business days for inspection and processing. Once processed, the refund is sent to your bank, which can take another 3-10 business days to post. The whole process can take up to three weeks from the day you mail the package.
Can I return a Mitchell and Ness item to a retail store?
It depends. If you bought it from the official Mitchell and Ness online store, you generally cannot return it to a third-party retailer like Lids or Fanatics. They have separate inventory and policies. However, if you bought it from a physical Mitchell and Ness flagship store, you can likely return online purchases there. Always call the store first to confirm.
What if I lost my return label or RMA number?
Check your email, including spam folders, for the original return authorization. If you can’t find it, contact customer service with your order number. They can resend the instructions and label. Do not ship the item without the proper RMA, as it may get lost in the system.
Does Mitchell and Ness offer free return shipping?
Typically, customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to a company error (like they sent the wrong item) or a damaged/defective product. The return portal will show any shipping charges before you finalize your return request.
Can I return a customized jersey?
No, customized jerseys with a player’s name and number, or any personalized items, are almost always final sale. This is because they are made specifically for you and cannot be resold to another customer.
What is Mitchell and Ness’s policy on late returns?
Returns received after the 30-day window are usually refused. The package may be sent back to you, or you might be offered store credit at their discretion, but this is not guaranteed. It’s best to stick to the posted timeframe.
Understanding the Mitchell and Ness return policy helps you shop with confidence. By following the steps, respecting the condition requirements, and acting within the 30-day window, you can ensure a positive experience even if a product isn’t quite right. Always check the official website for the most current policy details, as terms can occasionally change.